The problem I have is: I need to download some shows from TIVO to Mac. I have Roxio Toast II but no Home Networking Package. The HNP is no longer available and can't be purchased here (TIVO's and TIVO software are no longer sold in Australia) - which means I have no MAK. What are my options?

The Media Access Key will only appear on your TiVo after activating the Home Networking Package. However, this service is no longer available for purchase.

The decision to no longer sell the Home Networking Package and TiVo Desktop Plus was made after much consideration and discussion between Hybrid Television Services, licensee of TiVo in Australia and New Zealand, and TiVo Inc in the United States.

We here at TiVo Support are unable to comment or speculate on reason why this decision was made or on the possibility or timing of any future developments or releases of hardware and software related to TiVo and its associated products.

Well that's a pain then. They pulled the HNP from their website over a year ago, but I was told support was still selling it to customers directly.

Not much I can suggest really then. Without a MAK you are stuffed for an easy download.

If you are willing to compromise quality and at least get a copy of something you want, you can use a PC capture device (or old school VCR) to record the composite or S-Video output from the TiVo.

If you're up for a challenge, and are proficient with Linux and a soldering iron, there may be a way of retrieving your recordings by PROM modding and hacking your TiVo. I can't point you in the right direction due to restrictions on this forum (try Google).